Chiropractic care is becoming more and more popular, but it has been around for a long time. While it is commonly associated with the spine and neck, any joint can be treated by a chiropractor. However, many people still believe myths about chiropractors, which makes them avoid treatment. If you would like to know more, check out these three chiropractic myths.
Myth 1: A Chiropractor Isn't a Doctor
Many people still believe chiropractors aren't doctors, but the DC that follows their name stands for "Doctor of Chiropractic." To become certified as a DC, you need a lot of training and education. In fact, chiropractors in training typically take a lot of the same classes that medical doctors take, such as physiology.
They also need to meet a required number of hours in the classroom or in a medical setting under supervision. You also need to obtain your bachelor's degree before starting the chiropractic courses, just like a medical doctor. Finally, to become a licensed DC, a chiropractor must pass a board exam.
Myth 2: It's Too Expensive
Chiropractic care is actually an affordable treatment, especially if you have insurance. Many insurance carriers will allow your doctor to refer you to a chiropractor if necessary. In this case, your insurance will likely pay for most or all of the visit. However, some insurance plans may include a set number of chiropractic visits without a referral.
In addition, chiropractic care is a great way to offset some future treatments you may need. For example, getting your neck pain treated now may not only prevent the need for pain medications, but it may also prevent the need for future surgery.
Myth 3: Chiropractors Crack Your Back
A chiropractor adjusts joints; they don't crack them, but you may hear a loud popping noise as the joints are adjusted. Some people avoid the chiropractor because they believe this is a painful sensation that involves bones moving, but that's not true. The sound you hear is gas escaping the joint.
When this gas is gone, the joint can better relax, and there is less pressure on the joints because there is less gas and fluid in the joint. At the same time, these small adjustments stretch muscles slightly, which helps them to further relax the joint.
If you have joint pain, a chiropractor may be able to help. They are doctors, and they have all the training needed to treat a wide variety of conditions. If you would like to know more, contact a chiropractor in your area today.
